(CNN) –On the anniversary of the September 11 attacks, presidential candidates John McCain and Barack Obama each take the stage to discuss service and civic engagement in a forum at Columbia University.

What do you think of their ideas? How does the role of service determine what kind of nation we live in? What does national service mean to you?

soundoff(4,056 Responses)

Russ

Funny-I have left 3 comments in favor of McCain and none were posted. Must be primetime!!!

September 11, 2008 09:45 pm at 9:45 pm |

anon

While Obama would clearly be a role model for youth and disenfranchised citizens, Sarah Palin represents a brand new model for American women and youth.
Multi tasking, ethical, and motivated to serve, she would be an intelligent, energetic, and positive model of the strength of conviction. Obama cannot claim the scope and breadth of personal and professional victories she has already achieved.

September 11, 2008 09:45 pm at 9:45 pm |

Shannon

I think Obama speaks to my generation so much. We are big on the issues and were listening believe me we are.....I think they both did a good job..

September 11, 2008 09:45 pm at 9:45 pm |

FLARTIST

This a great moment...Obama was wonderful!

September 11, 2008 09:45 pm at 9:45 pm |

Dexter

If Obama becomes president I will serve in the Navy!

September 11, 2008 09:45 pm at 9:45 pm |

JPL

sa - it is only elitist to be in community service, if it is not faith based, if it is then you are doing the work of God, and that is a blessed act. I happen to think that it is a blessed act, to serve, no matter why or where, if it is borne from a desire to make the world a better place.

September 11, 2008 09:45 pm at 9:45 pm |

dan bonner

When Charlie Asked Palin about the Bush Doctrine she didn't know
what he was talking about! Isn't that great!

September 11, 2008 09:45 pm at 9:45 pm |

Texico From Mexico

What has McCain done for Veterans in 26 years? Nada...

September 11, 2008 09:45 pm at 9:45 pm |

STB

jopat and others-

I happen to be one of those that gets scared by short succinct answers to complex issues. It means the politician doesn't understand the complexities or doesn't think that I could. Either should scare people.

I am consistently impressed with the depth and breadth of Obama's answers. Not only the depth of knowledge expressed on the issue but the ability to show how any given issue effects others.

Sean

September 11, 2008 09:45 pm at 9:45 pm |

Gee, Alabama

Country First!

Question: Which Country? Iraq?!?!?!?!?!

September 11, 2008 09:45 pm at 9:45 pm |

Christopher Mathis

YES WE CAN!!!

September 11, 2008 09:45 pm at 9:45 pm |

SDO

Doesn't it seem odd that just a couple weeks ago McCain was putting out that celebrity ad about Paris Hilton, and now we have to look at the Beauty Queen VP? Jon Stewart must love this.

September 11, 2008 09:45 pm at 9:45 pm |

Common Sense

Wow...America, we actually discussed issues today and not a word about 'lipstick'...George Washington must be proud. Good Job guys!!!

September 11, 2008 09:45 pm at 9:45 pm |

EqualBranchesofGovernment

Oh no..............we might need some "service" down in Texas with Ike coming.

September 11, 2008 09:45 pm at 9:45 pm |

Carl

The only reason why the Budget was balanced in the 90's was on the back of the military....Look at how the Defense Department's budget was completely reduced...When I was in the Military we did not have enough funding to repair our combat vehicles.. What is the sacrafice?

September 11, 2008 09:45 pm at 9:45 pm |

Sheryl in Virginia

Senator Obama is so inspiring. For me, in a difficult time due to the financial tumult of the last 8 years, I am again inspired for the USA. Yes, we can make this a better country ... the country it should be. Thank you, CNN, for providing the platform this evening. Senator McCain is a "hero" and all that, but I am more inspired by Senator Obama's vision for the future. Go Barack !!!

September 11, 2008 09:45 pm at 9:45 pm |

Louise

The Republicans are scared that the forum tonight will change votes. Hopefully, voters will see how presidential Obama is, and McCain needs to go home, and let another generation take over.

September 11, 2008 09:45 pm at 9:45 pm |

William Dalton

Deborah- His message of change is registering with youth because youth want change. That's good, and right. However, one can't say McCain is for 'same old,' because in reality he is not. His platforms are very different from the Bush administration.

September 11, 2008 09:45 pm at 9:45 pm |

Terry G.

John McCain had more makeup on his face than a wh*re on payday.

September 11, 2008 09:45 pm at 9:45 pm |

Megan From VA Blue 08

Roland, Bill, and Candy(my fav) are awesome.. Great !

September 11, 2008 09:46 pm at 9:46 pm |

Moira

Barack Obama is such a great candidate, intelligent, clear headed, with integrity and outstanding plans for positive change for this country. John McCain and his bulldog with lipstick VP would destroy the country if they were given the chance to lead it. I hope they will not be given that chance, as if they do, we will all be in much bigger trouble than we are in today. Vote for Obama!

September 11, 2008 09:46 pm at 9:46 pm |

Shannon

Well, I'm not sure this anything for either candidate one way or the other, but it was a good forum to bring public service into the general conversation. It was great to see both candidates discuss the many ways one can serve his country. Referring to one earlier comment, the military do protect our right to do public service in t he first place, but let's concede that there really would not be much point if there was nothing to protect in the first place.

September 11, 2008 09:46 pm at 9:46 pm |

FrancescaY

Senator John McCain talk about how he is going to extend military, get more fund for the Peace corp., America corp, and possible created new programs that has to do with service. Those ideas are great, but McCain campaign is about lowing taxes. What I want to know? Is why didn’t your correspondent asks a follow up question? Such as, How you are going to pay for these programs without raising taxes?

September 11, 2008 09:46 pm at 9:46 pm |

Wisconsin_Dem_Erich

as a first time voter, i do have to say this is one heck of a contest to get started with no doubt about it

September 11, 2008 09:46 pm at 9:46 pm |

American

It was so wonderful watching this amicable forum. If only the remainder of the campaigning could be so civil.